Polyphagous shot hole borer has crossed the City of Armadale border

The City of Armadale has been informed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) that the Polyphagous shot hole borer (PSHB) has been found inside the City’s boundary.

Up until recently, the PSHB had not been detected in anywhere in the City of Armadale. It has now been detected near our boundary with the City of Gosnells, in Kelmscott.

The PSHB is a beetle that attacks a wide range of plants by tunnelling into trunks, stems and branches. It is a severe risk to biodiversity and our trees. At present, the only effective treatment is to remove and woodchip infested trees.

The City is working with DPIRD and the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) to manage this situation and take measures to prevent the PSHB from spreading further.

The City is actively monitoring the ongoing efforts and surveillance program by DPIRD, as well as actively participating in technical forums run by DPIRD and the WA Local Government Association (WALGA).

The City is using this information to proactively adapt our existing strategies, including our Urban Forest Planting Strategy, so we can ensure we can improve our resilience to the threat of the PSHB and other pests.

Mayor Ruth Butterfield said: “The PSHB is a serious threat to trees and shrubs on private property, in public areas and in bushland reserves. It is critical to work to prevent the spread by being vigilant and reporting suspected cases to DPIRD, who are managing the response.

"The City is working with DPIRD and DBCA to ensure we are doing everything in our power to support them to reduce the impact of the PSHB. Residents can assist by learning how to identify and report the signs of PSHB attack, so that we can help the State combat this invasive pest and protect our precious trees and plants.”

We encourage all residents and businesses to stay informed so we can minimise contamination and reduce the risk of the beetle spreading. 

Please report PSHB observations via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app or via the DPIRD Pest and Disease Information Service on (08) 9368 3080 or email padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

Our Engage Page will be home to all information and updates regarding the PSHB within the City of Armadale, and DPIRD remain the primary source of information regarding the PSHB.